LeadingAge Idea House 2012

LeadingAge IDEA HOUSE updated for 2012 but true to Enduring Principles

By THW Design

Principal in Charge: Eric Krull

In 2009, THW Design and LeadingAge collaborated to create the first Idea House, a platform to highlight and demonstrate the latest trends in senior living design and aging services technology. At the heart of that first iteration were three guiding principles: aging in place, technology in design, and sustainable design. As trends progress and technology continues to advance, so does the Idea House, yet those three guiding principles remain central to the design. In addition to the original principles, the challenges of today’s market require other design considerations as well: affordability and flexibility. To better demonstrate these ideals in an inspiring, home-like setting, THW Design and LeadingAge have worked hand in hand to present the new Idea House for 2012.

Building on the success of the previous house and retaining those basic concepts, the 2012 Idea House is a brand new platform, with newer technological features and items that reflect current trends in design. Though the economic challenges of the last few years have left few untouched, the continued advancement of technology has allowed features never thought possible to become affordable realities in today’s homes and communities. The aging services industry stands to benefit greatly from this increase as trends increasingly show the potential integration with other systems and technologies currently available in seniors’ homes today. The challenge for architects, designers, and operators is to integrate this cutting edge technology into a setting as intimate as the home without compromising the comfort and sanctity of the home itself. It is this very challenge which the 2012 Idea House encounters and overcomes, demonstrating the union of home and technology and taking it to a new level. Standing firm in their commitment to sustainable practices, LeadingAge and THW Design utilized much of the structure and materials from the previous Idea House to reduce construction

waste. Solar panels, once financially out of reach for many, have become more easily affordable and are featured in this year’s Idea House. Likewise, water and energy efficient fixtures and appliances represent opportunities for long term savings.

For ease of comparison, the 2012 Idea House showcases four unit types: Independent Living, Assisted Living, and two Skilled Nursing suites. Centered around an inviting social space, these units embody the marriage of state of the art technology and good design principles as they apply to the continuum of care. Through the utilization of the widely recognized iconic symbols of a home, the 2012 Idea House presents an adaptable and expandable environment that expresses the character and components of “home,” while providing the connectivity that all people need in their communities, and ultimately, to each other. Iconic symbols such as the welcome of the garden and front door, the classic pitched roof that every child relates to as the symbol of home, the warmth of the hearth, and the social gathering that occurs around a kitchen table, are all images expressing the essence of “home” in our culture.

Once only a utilitarian space, the kitchen today is the heart of the home. This reality seldom changes as people age or as their abilities change. As the 2012 Idea House demonstrates, there are solutions for maintaining independence in the kitchen for every level of ability. Cabinets that transition down to wheelchair height at the touch of a button and generous toe-kick clearances assure universal access to virtually every corner of the kitchen. Likewise, varied and adjustable countertop heights provide ample workspace for food prep or activities. Central to the space is the kitchen table. This is a place where families and friends meet for eating together, family business, or just to relate to one another. With its proximity to the fireplace and hearth, the thoughtful layout of the kitchen allows for a clear definition of spaces but also a seamless entertaining space contiguous with the living room.

The living room of the 2012 Idea House represents the ideal social space, whether it’s for a single occupancy home or a communal place for multiple residents. Comfortable seating at heights suitable for seniors is arranged to provide an inviting space to

entertain and relax with friends and family. Moving into the more private areas of the home, the attention to detail continues. The bedroom is a sanctuary away from the public spaces of the home where residents can retreat for time alone. For those whose ability restricts them to their bed, large windows allow daylight to fill the room while providing restorative views into the gardens surrounding the home. The fit and finish of the bedroom also allows for the medical necessities of increasing levels of care, while at the same time, provides for their discreet placement. As residents age in place, greater clearances may be needed for the activities of daily living. A prominent feature, which may not be easily identifiable, is the flexibility of the bedroom’s layout. The framing and arrangement of utility connections inside the walls ensure the ease of renovation for the transition of care in the future. This careful planning also means that multiple suites may be combined or separated as tastes and needs require. The bathroom of the 2012 Idea House creates an atmosphere where seniors may retain their independence and dignity, but also provides for caregiver access as necessary.

Ideally, residents would have the choice to select the fixtures that match their level of comfort, while leaving the option open for any potential renovations in the future as they age in place.

While the interior spaces are important, it is their connection to outdoor spaces which grounds a home. Large windows and easily identifiable doors to the garden give residents life beyond the walls. Scientific evidence increasingly shows the clear connection between all living things. The theory of biophilia proposes that there is a natural attraction between people and other living things. Bird and butterfly gardens invite seniors and wildlife to come into close contact. Vegetable gardens serve multiple purposes, bringing residents together for a common purpose, while at the same time, the responsibility of caring for a garden and being able to contribute to their own dinner table can provide seniors a greater sense of worth and being needed.

Proper planning of these outdoor spaces gives seniors a comforting sense of containment and security. The combination of clear wayfinding monuments (signs, landmarks, etc.) and monitoring technologies gives

them the peace of mind that they are in a safe place and never far from assistance if needed. Careful attention to lighting levels ensures these spaces can be enjoyed in the evenings, while giving caregivers the flexibility to adjust them as necessary so as not to interrupt the circadian rhythms of the residents.

Porches and patios serve as the transition to these outdoor rooms and the community beyond the front door. For many, the back porch is a place rich with lifelong memories, of childhood activities, of watching their own children or grandchildren at play, or of quiet times of reflection enjoying the outdoors. Likewise, the front porch is a welcoming place for greeting old friends or meeting new ones in the community. Building on this ideal, the home can be a connection point to the greater community as more campuses explore the possibility of contracting off campus services or involving outside providers.

Expanding the idea to what home can be for seniors, the Idea House demonstrates that “home” can be any place that embraces our perception of its iconic symbols, from an actual single house to a cluster home

concept, to a series of skilled care households in a high rise building. With proper planning and forward thinking, these environments can be as adaptable as the market needs dictate without losing the essence of home, community, and the social confluence that makes us vital and whole.

Through the use of tangible, real world examples, the 2012 Idea House stands as an inspiration to think forward about the nature of senior living and how adaptations to the current model can expand the care reach to more economic markets, increasing the vitality of more seniors in communities throughout America, and ultimately, the world beyond our boundaries.

PROJECT TEAM

Principal in Charge

Eric Krull

Director of Design

Lorraine Enwright

Senior Designer/AR

Alejandro Giraldo

Senior Designer/IN

Melinda Avila-Torio

Senior Designer/IN

Stephanie Clements

Director of Land Planning

Jake Friend

Landscape Architecture

Tom Bartlett

Brian Deriso

guiding principles

Aging-in-Place Design

At the LeadingAge Idea House, the main focus is to introduce ideas that will allow any homeowner and their family members to have the ability and confidence that the home will adapt with current and future physical needs and allow them to stay home as long as possible.

Technology in Design

Through technology, the Idea House will allow the homeowner to age in place with the security of knowing that he or she will live in a safe environment that will keep them connected with vital sensoring and monitoring systems that will help them with their daily activities.

Technologies to measure sleep quality, detect heart rate, breathing rate, motion, and presence, just to name a few, will be on display in the LeadingAge Idea House. Being connected to family is key to wellness, and this technology can help a homeowner stay connected with loved ones through multiple media applications. Other technological devices offer a range of therapies for the homeowner as well.

Sustainable Design

Sustainable design is important to the environment and contributes to a healthy and natural lifestyle in which to age in place. The LeadingAge Idea House is planned with exposed courtyards, exterior shade devices—with natural light and ventilation in mind. Depending on the site, the sloped roof with photovoltaic solar panels has the flexibility to change its orientation to the sun. A green roof and wall system has been planned into the flexible design. The Idea House utilizes recycled products as well as water and energy-saving devices, such as low flow fixtures, energy efficient lighting, and window shade controls.

Affordability and Flexibility

A prominent feature of the Idea House, which may not be easily identifiable, is the flexibility of each room’s layout. The framing and arrangement of utility connections inside the walls ensure the ease and cost effectiveness of renovation for the transition of care in the future. This also means that multiple suites may be combined or separated as tastes and needs require. The constant advancement of technology and sustainable design products and methodologies makes it increasingly more affordable to utilize them in every development.

thinking design...

The LeadingAge Idea House was conceived as a “Think Tank” with agingin-place technology and sustainability in mind. The LeadingAge Idea House is designed to foster wellness and socialization using the Great Room, Dining and Kitchen areas as the central hub around which all activities of daily life are organized. The house incorporates barrier-free ideas with future planning that will allow for multigenerational living. Kitchen and bathroom designs can be adapted as the resident ages in place and may become dependent on wheelchairs or motorized devices. Careful thought to spacious barrier-free circulation is a key element to aid easy maneuverability throughout the house as the resident ages in place.

OUTDOOR LIVING

While the interior spaces are important, it is their connection to outdoor spaces which grounds a home.

iDEAS

1. Porches and patios serve as transition spaces to these outdoor rooms and the neighborhood beyond.

2. Separation of public and private zones.

3. Public spaces for socialization with seating for groups.

4. Private areas for rest or meditation and reflection.

5. Outdoor dining / gathering spaces in both sun and shade.

6. Spaces should be accessible for universal access.

7. Garden plots for vegetables and herbs.

8. Connection to other living things – ‘Biophilia’

9. Arrangement of elements creates views into natural areas from indoors.

PARTICIPANTS

• AnyWhere Solar

• Carpenter Bus Sales

• Direct Supply

• GerFlor

• Freedom Outdoor Furniture

• Sherwin Williams

FOYER

Those first steps that Ethan, Isabel, Serenity or Miguel takes into their house are hallmark to what coming home is all about. This home elevates their access to a safe and healthy continuum of living.

iDEAS

PARTICIPANTS

• Cornell Communications, Inc.

• Joerns Healthcare

• Shaw Contract Group

• Sherwin Williams

isabel’s BEDROOM

Now and then Isabel needs strong cues to help navigate through the daily tasks. Keeping everyday necessities very organized is critical for Isabel‘s quality of living.

iDEAS

15. Fabric technology for high durability.

16. Hotel grade custom bedding.

17. Custom fabricated window treatment.

18. High density carpet with recycled content and soil protection.

19. Low odor wall paint with antimicrobial and odor eliminating attributes.

20. Recognizable and comfortable furniture profiles.

21. Bed technology offers easy to reach control features.

22. Teleheath products for monitoring vitals and self-help.

23. Wall mounted decorative light fixture above bed.

24. Large windows allow for natural light into the space and outdoors view.

25. Outdoor patio.

PARTICIPANTS

• Joerns Heathcare

• Philips

• SeniorT V

• Shaw Contract Group

• Sherwin Williams

isabel’s BATHROOM

Isabel’s bathroom shows a comprehensive solution for different scenarios requiring assistance.

iDEAS

26. Self-cleaning floor and wall tiles with antimicrobial features.

27. Low odor wall paint with antimicrobial and odor eliminating attributes.

28. Vanity mirror with integral lighting.

29. 42” L vanity counter.

30. ADA bathroom plumbing fixtures.

31. Hotel grade softgoods.

32. Water efficient plumbing fixtures.

PARTICIPANTS

• Joerns Heathcare

• Sherwin Williams

• TOTO

serenity’s BEDROOM

Serenity’s bedroom is very unique. Often times her ability to move around in a wheelchair was hindered by the lack of floor area. Her new space allows unobstructed movement.

iDEAS

37.

38.

39.

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42.

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PARTICIPANTS

• Cooltree

• Interface/Satech

• Response Care, Inc.

• Sherwin Williams

• Standard Textile Co.

• Vancare, Inc.

33. High density carpet tile with recycled content and soil protection.

34. Low odor wall paint with antimicrobial and odor eliminating attributes.

35. Wall mounted furniture for easy maneuvering and cleaning.

36. Decorative light fixture interfaced with nurse call system.

Emergency communication devices.

Ceiling lift and track.

Rubber underlayment cushion for safety.

Hotel grade custom bedding.

Fabric technology for high durability.

Large windows allow for natural light into the space and outdoors view.

Outdoor patio.

serenity’s BATHROOM

Serenity’s bathroom is equipped with an assortment of innovations. These opportunities allow Serenity and her caregiver to actively perform her daily routine.

iDEAS

PARTICIPANTS

• Best Bath Systems

• GerFlor

• Miracle Seat Co.

• New England Medical

• SeaChrome Corporation

• Sherwin Williams

• Standard Textile Co.

44. Emergency communication devices.

45. Luxury vinyl tile with cork backing for high comfort and safety.

46. Low odor wall paint with antimicrobial and odor eliminating attributes.

47. Prefab roll-in shower with accent tiles.

48. Decorative ADA grab bars and bath accessories.

49. Height adjustable swing arm sink. 50. Toilet with odor eliminating component.

51. Water efficient plumbing fixtures.

KITCHEN

The family’s “Heart of the Home”. The different communal zones in the kitchen allow the family members and care providers to participate in interpersonal living.

iDEAS

52. Telehealth devices for communication.

53. Height adjustable countertop at island.

54. Water efficient plumbing fixtures.

55. Aging in place / Universal Design - Kitchen features.

56. Universal design cabinets.

57. 33” counter.

58. 8” illuminated toe-kick.

59. Accessible sink.

60. Pull-out accessories / drawers from 24” wide cabinets.

61. Interior Accessories in 18” drawer tower.

62. Below counter microwave oven shelf.

63. Below counter dishwasher shelf.

64. ADA compliant oven.

65. Illuminated wall cabinets.

66. ADA compliant refrigerator.

67. Island (multi-level working height)

68. 30”x59” adjustable height (from 26” to 44”) desk / counter.

69. 24”x64” raised (fixed 40”) working counter.

70. Accessible cook top

71. Spices drawers.

72. Storage / Wine boxes.

PARTICIPANTS

• Direct Supply

• EarthWerks

• Hafele America Co.

• Hamilton CapTel

• Justice Design Group

• Kohler

• Sherwin Williams

• The Whiting –Turner Contracting Company

DINING ROOM

This unique gathering space easily bridges the social rhythm that naturally occurs between the Great Room and the Kitchen.

iDEAS

73. Comfortable furniture profiles

74. High performing fabric

75. Decorative light fixture

PARTICIPANTS

• Direct Supply

• EarthWerks

• Justice Design Group

• Sherwin Williams

GREAT ROOM

Family and friends gather in the innermost part of the home, the Great Room. The transparency and furnishings in this room encourage socialization.

iDEAS

76. High density carpet with soil protection and recycled content.

77. Custom dimension furniture profiles for maximum comfort.

78. Telehealth devices to monitor vitals and safety.

79. Seating arrangement supports the 5’-6’ conversation distance.

80. Decorative light fixture with energy saving feature.

81. Technology that encourages interaction.

82. Skylights / Dormers provide natural light into the space.

83. Fireplace

PARTICIPANTS

• It’s Never Too Late

• JL Furnishings – JLF Lone Meadow

• Justice Design Group

• Philips

• Shaw Contract Group

• Sherwin Williams

miguel’s BEDROOM & LAUNDRY

LAUNDRY ROOM

Miguel’s recuperation is made easier with the available product designs in his bedroom. His caregiver’s administering of care is highlighted with more face time between them.

The family’s Laundry Room is outfitted with space saving product developments that make it easier for Ethan, Isabel, Serenity and Miguel to be actively involved in another daily living routine.

iDEAS

84. Telehealth devices to monitor vitals and safety.

85. High density carpet tile solution dye with recycled content and soil protection.

86. Bed with advanced user controls and configurations.

87. Hotel grade custom bedding.

88. Fabric technology for high durability.

89. Custom fabricated window treatment.

90. Large windows allow for natural light into the space and outdoors view.

91. Outdoor patio.

92. Recessed wall unit with integral light and ironing board

93. Energy saving residential appliances

94. Wall mounted telehealth device

PARTICIPANTS

• Direct Supply

• Early Sense, Inc.

• GerFlor

• Hill-Rom

• InterfaceFlor

• Iron-AWay, Inc.

• Philips

• Sherman Williams

• Standard Textile Co.

ethan’s BEDROOM

Ethan lives with optimal independence. He is surrounded by easily recognizable elements of home. The play of color, texture, furniture profiles and technology maintains an easy transition into a healthful

PARTICIPANTS

• Cornell Communications, Inc.

• Direct Supply

• Senior T V

• Sherwin Williams

ethan’s BATHROOM

PARTICIPANTS

• Cornell Communications, Inc.

• Direct Supply

• GerFlor

• Kohler

• Sherwin Williams

Thanks to THW Design for their contribution to the LeadingAge Idea House

For more than 50 years, THW has demonstrated a wide range of capabilities in master planning, landscape architecture, architecture and interior design with commissions that span a wide range of market sectors and project types. Today, THW is considered among the nation’s top senior living design firms, bringing a unique hospitality and community-based focus. For more than 25 years, THW has been setting the standard in senior housing with attention to detail, evidence-based design and the creation of vital communities. Our services are supported through extensive research in senior lifestyles, health and wellness initiatives and development of new product types. With the investment of these resources, we are creating environments that enhance social well being with innovative solutions that make a difference.